Wearable health technology has become a big part of our lives. Whether you want to track your steps, monitor your heart rate, or even measure your blood oxygen levels, there’s a device for you. But how much do these devices actually cost? More importantly, are they worth the price? This article breaks down the costs of wearable health tech and helps you understand what you’re really paying for.
1. The average cost of a high-end wearable health device (e.g., Apple Watch, Garmin) is between $300 and $600.
If you want a top-tier wearable health device, you can expect to spend between $300 and $600. High-end smartwatches from Apple, Garmin, and Samsung come with advanced sensors, detailed health tracking, and long battery life.
These devices often include ECG monitoring, blood oxygen sensors, and even stress tracking. They are designed for people who want in-depth health insights. While the price is high, the investment might be worth it if you’re serious about your health.
To make the most of your money, compare models before buying. Look at features like battery life, software support, and the types of health data they track. Many retailers offer discounts during holidays, so waiting for a sale could save you hundreds of dollars.
2. Entry-level fitness trackers (e.g., Fitbit Inspire, Xiaomi Mi Band) typically range from $50 to $150.
Not everyone needs an expensive smartwatch. If you’re looking for something simple, fitness trackers like the Fitbit Inspire or Xiaomi Mi Band are great options. These devices cost between $50 and $150 and provide essential health metrics like step count, heart rate, and sleep tracking.
They are perfect for beginners or those who just want to track their daily movement. However, these devices may lack advanced health tracking features like ECG monitoring or SpO2 sensors.
If you are on a budget, look for refurbished models or older versions. Brands often release new models every year, which makes previous versions more affordable.
3. Smartwatches with advanced health-tracking features (ECG, blood oxygen) usually cost $250 to $800.
If you want a smartwatch that offers more than just fitness tracking, expect to pay between $250 and $800. These devices provide features like ECG monitoring, blood oxygen level tracking, and even sleep apnea detection.
Apple, Samsung, and Garmin lead the market in this category. Their watches are designed for users who need more detailed health data, such as athletes and individuals with medical conditions.
When choosing one, consider what features you actually need. If you don’t have a heart condition, for example, ECG monitoring may not be essential.
4. Medical-grade wearable devices can cost $1,000 to $3,000+, depending on features and regulatory approvals.
Some wearable health tech devices go beyond fitness tracking and enter the medical space. These devices can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 or more. They are often used by people with chronic conditions or those recovering from surgery.
Medical-grade wearables, such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) for diabetics or heart rate variability monitors, provide clinical-level accuracy. They are FDA-approved and often require a prescription.
If you need one of these devices, check with your insurance provider. Some insurers cover a portion of the cost, making it more affordable.
5. Subscription fees for premium health tracking services (e.g., Fitbit Premium, WHOOP) range from $5 to $30 per month.
Buying a wearable device is not always a one-time expense. Many brands offer premium subscriptions for detailed health insights. Fitbit Premium, WHOOP, and Apple Fitness+ charge between $5 and $30 per month for extra data and personalized insights.
These subscriptions provide features like advanced sleep analysis, stress management tools, and guided workouts. While useful, they can add up over time.
If you are on a budget, consider whether you really need these extras. Many free apps provide similar tracking features without the ongoing costs.
6. The Apple Watch Ultra, a high-end smartwatch, costs around $799.
The Apple Watch Ultra is Apple’s most expensive smartwatch, costing around $799. It is built for extreme sports enthusiasts, offering a more durable design, improved battery life, and advanced tracking features.
This watch is great for divers, hikers, and runners who need a rugged device. However, for the average user, a regular Apple Watch may provide enough functionality at a lower price.
Before purchasing, think about whether you will actually use the extra durability and features. If not, you might be able to save a few hundred dollars by choosing a different model.
7. WHOOP’s membership costs $30 per month or $300 per year, with no option to buy the device outright.
Unlike most wearable brands, WHOOP operates on a subscription-only model. Instead of paying for a device upfront, you pay $30 per month or $300 per year to use the tracker.
WHOOP provides detailed health analytics, focusing on recovery and strain rather than just activity tracking. It’s popular among athletes and fitness enthusiasts who want in-depth performance insights.
However, the lack of an outright purchase option means long-term costs can be higher. Over five years, you could end up spending over $1,500 on WHOOP. Consider whether you need this level of data before committing.
8. Oura Ring, a smart ring for sleep and wellness tracking, costs $299 to $549, plus a $5.99 monthly subscription.
The Oura Ring is a unique health wearable that tracks sleep, heart rate, and body temperature. The device itself costs between $299 and $549, depending on the model. Additionally, there’s a $5.99 monthly subscription for advanced insights.
The Oura Ring is praised for its comfort and accuracy, making it a favorite among sleep enthusiasts. However, if you’re already using a smartwatch with sleep tracking, it may not be necessary.
If you’re considering the Oura Ring, look at whether its unique insights justify the cost. Otherwise, you might be better off with a smartwatch that offers similar data.
9. Fitbit Premium costs $9.99 per month or $79.99 per year for advanced health insights.
Fitbit Premium is one of the most popular health subscriptions, costing $9.99 per month or $79.99 per year. It provides extra features such as stress tracking, guided workouts, and advanced sleep analysis.
While these features can be useful, many users find that the basic Fitbit app already provides enough data. Before subscribing, use the free trial to see if the extra insights are worth it.
If you want to save money, consider annual billing instead of monthly payments, as it is often cheaper.
10. Garmin’s high-end multisport smartwatches can cost between $600 and $1,500.
Garmin is known for producing high-end smartwatches designed for serious athletes. Their advanced models range from $600 to $1,500.
These watches are popular among runners, cyclists, and triathletes who need detailed performance metrics. They offer long battery life, top-tier GPS tracking, and in-depth training analytics.
If you are a casual user, a cheaper Garmin model or another brand might be sufficient. However, for serious athletes, the investment in a high-end Garmin can be worth it.
11. A basic continuous glucose monitor (CGM) like the FreeStyle Libre costs around $75 per sensor, replaced every 14 days.
For people with diabetes or those who need to monitor their blood sugar levels, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are essential. The FreeStyle Libre is one of the most affordable options, with sensors costing around $75 each.
Since the sensors need to be replaced every 14 days, this adds up to around $150 per month or $1,800 per year.
While this technology provides life-changing benefits, it is expensive in the long run. Some insurance plans cover CGMs, so if you need one, check with your provider. Additionally, some pharmacies offer discounts or rebates that can help reduce costs.
If you don’t have insurance coverage, budgeting for these expenses is crucial. Some people choose to use CGMs only during critical periods, like when adjusting medications or diets, to minimize costs.
12. Dexcom G6 CGM starter kit costs $1,200+, with sensors priced at $300 to $400 per month.
Dexcom G6 is another leading CGM device, offering real-time glucose tracking with a more advanced sensor system. However, it comes at a higher cost. The starter kit alone costs over $1,200, and monthly sensor replacements range from $300 to $400.
While this device provides highly accurate glucose readings and integrates with smartwatches, its high cost makes it inaccessible to many. Fortunately, some insurance plans and assistance programs help offset these expenses.
If you’re considering a CGM but are worried about costs, ask your doctor about alternatives. Some hospitals and clinics offer discount programs or payment plans to make these devices more affordable.
13. ECG-enabled wearable devices, such as the KardiaMobile, cost around $99 to $200, with optional subscriptions.
Electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring is a game-changer for people with heart conditions. Devices like the KardiaMobile allow users to take an ECG reading at home, helping detect irregular heart rhythms. These devices cost between $99 and $200, making them more affordable than many high-end smartwatches.
However, KardiaMobile and similar devices often require a subscription for advanced analytics. If you only need occasional ECG readings, a smartwatch with built-in ECG functionality might be a better investment.
To save money, check if your doctor or insurance provider offers any reimbursement for at-home ECG devices. Some telehealth services also provide ECG monitoring as part of their consultations.
14. Smart hearing aids with Bluetooth and health tracking features cost between $1,500 and $5,000 per pair.
Modern hearing aids do more than just amplify sound. Many now include Bluetooth connectivity, fall detection, and health tracking features. However, these advanced models can be costly, ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 per pair.
Insurance coverage for hearing aids varies widely, with some providers covering part of the cost while others offer no assistance at all. If you’re looking to buy a pair, consider checking for government programs, veterans’ benefits, or financial aid options.
To get the best value, compare different brands and features. Some hearing aids offer nearly the same benefits as premium models but at a much lower price.
15. Insurance coverage for wearable health tech varies, with few private insurers covering non-medical-grade devices.
Most insurance companies do not cover consumer-grade wearables like Apple Watches or Fitbits, even if they have health-tracking features. However, medical-grade wearables, such as CGMs and ECG monitors, may be eligible for coverage.
If you need a wearable device for health reasons, it’s worth talking to your doctor or insurance provider. Some companies offer reimbursement for health-related tech if prescribed by a physician.
Additionally, some flexible spending accounts (FSAs) and health savings accounts (HSAs) allow you to use pre-tax dollars to purchase certain wearables, reducing your overall cost.
16. The global wearable health tech market is projected to reach $100 billion by 2028.
Wearable health tech is a rapidly growing industry. With more people focusing on fitness, wellness, and chronic disease management, the market is expected to reach $100 billion by 2028.
This growth means more competition among brands, which could lead to lower prices and better features for consumers. It also means that insurance companies and employers may start offering more coverage or discounts for wearables.
If you’re considering buying a wearable device, this trend suggests that newer and more affordable options will continue to emerge. Waiting for the latest models or discounts could help you get a better deal.
17. Over 70% of consumers say cost is a major barrier to purchasing advanced wearable health devices.
Despite the many benefits of wearable health technology, cost remains a major issue. More than 70% of people say that high prices prevent them from purchasing devices like smartwatches and CGMs.
This has led to an increase in refurbished and second-hand devices. Many companies now sell certified refurbished products at a lower cost, offering the same warranty as new devices.
If you’re on a budget, consider buying last year’s model or looking for trade-in programs. Some brands allow you to exchange your old device for credit toward a new one, reducing your out-of-pocket costs.
18. Employers increasingly subsidize wearables, with some corporate wellness programs covering 50% to 100% of the device cost.
More companies are investing in employee health, with many offering discounts or full reimbursement for wearable health devices. Some corporate wellness programs cover 50% to 100% of the cost of fitness trackers and smartwatches.
If you work for a company that offers wellness benefits, check to see if they provide wearable tech discounts. Some employers even give incentives for meeting daily step goals or participating in fitness challenges.
If your company doesn’t offer this, consider suggesting it to HR. Many businesses are open to these programs because they reduce healthcare costs and increase employee productivity.
19. Over 60% of smartwatch users pay for at least one additional health-tracking subscription.
Buying a smartwatch is just the beginning. Many users pay for premium subscriptions to unlock advanced features. In fact, over 60% of smartwatch owners subscribe to services like Fitbit Premium, WHOOP, or Apple Fitness+.
While these subscriptions can enhance your experience, they add ongoing costs. Before signing up, compare what’s included in the free version of your device’s app. Many free alternatives provide similar insights.
If you want to avoid monthly fees, consider a device that offers lifetime access to health features without requiring a subscription. Some Garmin and Polar watches include detailed tracking without extra charges.
20. More than 40% of consumers say they would pay extra for AI-driven health insights in wearables.
As AI technology improves, more people are willing to pay for smarter health insights. Over 40% of wearable users say they would pay extra for AI-powered features like predictive health alerts, personalized coaching, and early disease detection.
Some wearable brands are already integrating AI to provide more accurate and customized health recommendations. This means future devices may cost more but offer greater value in return.
If you’re interested in AI-powered wearables, keep an eye on upcoming models. As competition increases, brands will likely offer more AI features at lower prices.
21. Smart rings, like the Oura Ring, have seen a 40% increase in adoption despite their high price point.
Smart rings are becoming a popular alternative to smartwatches. The Oura Ring, one of the leading models, has seen a 40% rise in adoption even though it costs between $299 and $549, plus a $5.99 monthly subscription.
Why are people willing to pay this much? Comfort and convenience play a big role. Unlike smartwatches, smart rings are lightweight and don’t interfere with daily activities. They also provide detailed sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, and body temperature tracking.
If you’re considering buying a smart ring, think about whether it fits your needs. If you already own a smartwatch with similar features, you might not need a separate device. However, if you prioritize sleep tracking and a minimal design, it could be worth the investment.
22. Wearable ECG monitors approved by the FDA can cost between $200 and $400.
FDA-approved wearable ECG monitors, such as the KardiaMobile and Withings ScanWatch, provide medical-grade heart monitoring. These devices range in price from $200 to $400 and can detect irregular heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation.
The benefit of these wearables is that they allow users to take ECG readings at home, reducing the need for frequent doctor visits. However, while they offer high accuracy, they should not replace professional medical advice.
Before purchasing an ECG wearable, consider whether you need continuous monitoring. If you have a heart condition or a family history of heart disease, it could be a useful tool. Otherwise, a regular smartwatch with occasional ECG capabilities may be a more cost-effective option.
23. The cost of wearable tech has decreased by about 15-20% per year for basic fitness trackers.
Good news for budget-conscious buyers: the cost of basic fitness trackers has been dropping by 15-20% per year. As technology improves and competition increases, brands like Xiaomi, Fitbit, and Huawei continue to release more affordable models.
This means that if you don’t need the latest features, you can save money by purchasing last year’s model. Many older fitness trackers still offer step counting, heart rate monitoring, and sleep tracking at a fraction of the cost of newer models.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly wearable, consider waiting for seasonal sales or refurbished deals. Many retailers sell certified refurbished models that come with warranties, offering a great way to save money without compromising on quality.
24. 85% of smartwatch owners use them primarily for health tracking.
While smartwatches offer a variety of features, 85% of owners use them mainly for health tracking. This includes step counting, heart rate monitoring, sleep tracking, and even ECG readings.
This statistic highlights the shift from smartwatches being just notifications devices to becoming essential health tools. It also means that choosing the right smartwatch should be based on health features rather than just aesthetics.
If you’re in the market for a smartwatch, consider your health goals. Are you trying to lose weight? Manage stress? Improve sleep? Choose a device that specializes in the metrics that matter most to you.
25. Wearable blood pressure monitors cost between $150 and $500, depending on accuracy and features.
Blood pressure monitoring has traditionally required a cuff-based device, but new wearables allow users to measure their blood pressure on the go. These devices cost between $150 and $500, with some offering continuous monitoring.
Brands like Omron and Withings have developed FDA-approved smartwatches and bands that measure blood pressure. However, accuracy can vary, so it’s important to choose a clinically validated device.
If you have high blood pressure or a family history of hypertension, a wearable BP monitor can be a valuable tool. However, for occasional checks, a traditional cuff-based monitor may be more cost-effective.
26. Smart patches for monitoring hydration and electrolyte levels cost around $200 to $400.
Hydration tracking is an emerging category in wearable health tech. Smart patches that monitor hydration and electrolyte levels cost between $200 and $400 and are often used by athletes and people in extreme environments.
These patches work by analyzing sweat composition and providing real-time feedback on hydration levels. They help athletes optimize their performance and prevent dehydration-related issues.
While these devices are highly specialized, they may not be necessary for the average person. If you’re an endurance athlete, they can be useful, but for casual fitness enthusiasts, drinking water regularly and monitoring urine color may be just as effective.
27. Wearable sleep tracking devices (excluding smartwatches) range from $100 to $400.
While most smartwatches include sleep tracking, some standalone devices focus exclusively on sleep health. These cost between $100 and $400 and offer more advanced insights than general-purpose wearables.
Popular devices include the Oura Ring and the Withings Sleep Analyzer, which provide in-depth data on sleep stages, heart rate variability, and even snoring detection.
If improving sleep is your main goal, investing in a dedicated sleep tracker could be a good choice. However, if you already own a smartwatch with sleep tracking, you may not need a separate device
28. VR-based wellness wearables (e.g., meditation headsets) cost around $300 to $1,000.
Virtual reality (VR) is making its way into the wellness space, with meditation-focused headsets costing between $300 and $1,000. These devices use guided meditation, biofeedback, and immersive experiences to help users manage stress and anxiety.
Brands like Muse and Oculus offer VR meditation solutions that use brainwave monitoring and real-time feedback to enhance relaxation. While effective, they are relatively expensive compared to traditional meditation apps.
If stress management is your goal, consider whether a VR headset is necessary. Many free and low-cost meditation apps provide similar benefits without the high price tag.
29. Over 50% of consumers say they prefer one-time payments over subscription models for health wearables.
Subscription-based wearables like WHOOP and Oura Ring are growing in popularity, but over half of consumers say they prefer a one-time payment model. This is because subscription fees add up over time, making the total cost of ownership higher than expected.
If you don’t like monthly fees, look for devices that offer all features without requiring a subscription. Many Garmin and Polar smartwatches, for example, provide in-depth health tracking without ongoing costs.
When choosing a wearable, consider long-term expenses. A device with no subscription fees might have a higher upfront cost but could be more affordable in the long run.
30. Companies like Apple, Fitbit, and Garmin control over 75% of the wearable health tech market in terms of revenue.
The wearable health tech market is dominated by a few key players. Apple, Fitbit (owned by Google), and Garmin collectively control over 75% of the market in terms of revenue.
This dominance means these brands set the standard for features, pricing, and innovation. However, smaller brands are emerging with competitive features at lower price points, making it worth exploring all options before buying.
If you want the best support and software updates, choosing a major brand is a safe bet. However, if you’re looking for affordability, newer brands may offer better value.
wrapping it up
Wearable health technology has transformed the way people monitor their fitness and well-being. From basic fitness trackers to advanced medical-grade wearables, the cost of these devices varies widely.
While some require hefty investments, others are becoming more affordable due to competition and technological advancements.
